Footballer José Santamaría passed away on April 15, 2026, at the age of 96. Introduction José Emilio Santamaría was a Uruguayan-Spanish footballer and later football coach, renowned as a defender for Club Nacional and especially Real Madrid. He was considered a key figure in the defense of the great Real Madrid of the 1950s and 1960s, with whom he won four European Cups. Additionally, he represented both the Uruguayan and the Spanish national teams, a rare achievement in his era. Sports Career Santamaría was born on July 31, 1929, in Montevideo and began his professional career in Uruguay with Club Nacional. There, he developed into a defender known for strong positional play, heading ability, and leadership qualities, which also drew attention outside South America. His breakthrough into international top football came with his transfer to Real Madrid in 1957. This move was seen as a significant moment in the further internationalization of European club football, as Santamaría was among the first South American players to establish themselves at a top European club. At Real Madrid, he became one of the pillars of a team that dominated European football. He played alongside legends such as Alfredo Di Stéfano and Ferenc Puskás, initially under coach Luis Carniglia and later under Miguel Muñoz. As a defender and captain, he brought calmness and organization to a team renowned for its attacking prowess. Played for Club Nacional and Real Madrid. Represented Uruguay and later Spain internationally. Won four European Cups with Real Madrid. Played over 600 official matches in his professional career. The peak of his career was during his years at Real Madrid, where he played a crucial role in the team's defensive stability during the club’s early European Cup successes. His combination of timing, tackling strength, and leadership made him one of the leading defenders of his generation. Santamaría also symbolized a broader development in international football. His successful move from Uruguay to Spain demonstrated that top South American players could make an immediate impact in Europe, a path later followed by many others. After retiring from active play, he continued working in football as a coach. He was active in various countries, passing on his experience as a top defender and his perspective on the game to a new generation. Private Life José Emilio Santamaría was born in Montevideo, Uruguay, and held Uruguayan-Spanish nationality. Public information about his private life is limited, except that his career took him from Uruguay to top Spanish football. Passing Away José Santamaría died on April 15, 2026, at the age of 96. The place of death has not been publicly confirmed. Nothing has been publicly confirmed about the cause of death. Santamaría is mainly remembered in reactions and retrospectives as one of the faces of Real Madrid’s early European success and as a pioneer for South American footballers in Europe. Conclusion With the passing of José Santamaría, the football world loses a respected defender and a pioneer of international club football. His achievements with Real Madrid and his unique international career for two countries secure his place in football history. More notable sports figures can be found on Overleden.net. This article was prepared with the support of AI tools and verified by the editorial team of Overleden.net.